Trent University’s Momentous Campaign has reached a significant milestone towards its $100 million goal – raising more than $60 million to date in philanthropic support to advance leadership, empower student success, and invest in inspiring spaces that serve both the University and the broader community. 

“This is a momentous achievement, and what excites me most is the tangible impact the campaign is having in the Trent community,” says Dr. Cathy Bruce, president and vice chancellor of Trent University. “Support from the Trent community and beyond is advancing bold leadership through new research, innovation, and experiential learning opportunities. It is opening doors for talented students through scholarships and bursaries, while helping us renew and reimagine our campuses as dynamic spaces that foster lifelong learning, leadership in solution finding and connection.” 

Empowering students and advancing leadership

Through strategic investments such as the Jarislowsky Chair in Trust and Political Leadership, the Wilder Fund for Canadian History, and investment in aquatic research on local ecosystems, the Momentous Campaign—the most ambitious funding initiative in the University’s history—reinforces Trent’s strengths in the humanities, science, and community education.  

Support has also fueled growth in experiential learning, particularly community-based research through the Trent Community Research Centre, and has created new scholarships and enhanced student supports, such as the new Mary Snack Scholarship for students in Trent’s School of Business. 

“When we remove financial barriers to education, students can truly thrive,” says Gavin Marshall ’76, a Momentous Campaign leader. “This campaign is helping remove those barriers and provides students the opportunity to engage deeply in their studies and discover their potential.” 

Investing in an inspiring, community-driven campus environment

Philanthropic support is also transforming the physical landscape of the University. This includes revitalizing cherished spaces, such as the Lady Eaton College Music Room, as well as creating new landmarks like the Jalynn Bennett Amphitheatre at Catharine Parr Traill College, an outdoor venue that enhances arts and culture on campus. Both Otonabee College and Champlain College will undergo the revitalization of iconic areas, including the Trellis Benches and the former K-House lounge and patio. Additionally, Peter Gzowski College’s Endahying Subsidy program is offering financial assistance to students eager to participate in its Indigenous-themed living and learning community. 

At the same time, new investments in learning environments such as the Trent Research Farm Centre and vital community spaces, such as the Trent Durham Medicine Garden, enrich students’ learning experiences and foster a sense of belonging. 

Ongoing momentum  

With more than $60 million raised to date, the Momentous Campaign is now almost two-thirds of the way to its $100-million goal. Thanks to the generosity of Trent’s supporters, the University’s endowment has grown to $112 million, providing an annual stream of sustainable funding for student support, research, and teaching. Additionally, the growing number of regular contributors is steadily advancing toward the ambitious goal of 500 monthly donors. 

“Throughout my career, I’ve seen how access to education and support can change the course of a life. That’s exactly what the Momentous Campaign is doing for Trent students – removing financial barriers, creating spaces that inspire learning and investing in their success,” adds Linda Schuyler, campaign leader and honorary Trent alumna. “I’m proud to support this work, and I hope others will join us in helping even more students thrive.”  

This Momentous Campaign milestone was officially announced at the June 20 meeting of Trent’s Board of Governors, where members also received the latest 2025 Momentous Campaign Impact Report highlighting the progress and outcomes to date. 

Learn more about the Momentous Campaign.